UPDATE: Just announced, etiquette expert Miss Manners provides urgent advice on handling an uncomfortable dinner table situation regarding cell phone use. With increasing concerns about hygiene, especially for those who are immunocompromised, this guidance is crucial for social gatherings.
A reader expressed frustration over a friend who frequently passes his phone around the dinner table to share photos, risking germ exposure. The reader’s husband is immunocompromised, making this issue particularly sensitive. The reader asked how to decline touching the phone without causing embarrassment.
Miss Manners suggests a straightforward yet tactful approach: speak to the friend privately or announce a device-free zone to all guests. This not only addresses the immediate concern but also sets a precedent for future gatherings.
If the situation arises unexpectedly, Miss Manners offers a clever workaround. Stand up and approach your husband, intercepting the phone before it reaches him. Express delight over the photo, then pass it along to the next person. This allows you to gracefully exit the situation while maintaining decorum.
This guidance comes at a time when phone-passing has become a widespread nuisance, impacting social interactions. With many people gradually returning to in-person gatherings, maintaining hygiene is more important than ever.
In another related query, a reader expressed discontent about a neighbor’s open house invitation that required guests to bring food without requesting RSVPs. Miss Manners emphasizes that etiquette mandates a response, even if the invitation lacks a phone number or explicit RSVP request. Declining is just as polite as accepting.
Lastly, Miss Manners addressed concerns about traveling with friends who do not share similar interests. She reassured readers that they are under no obligation to travel with anyone, even friends. When asked about future trips, one can skillfully avoid sharing plans, mentioning instead that trips are already booked or that it’s a chance to enjoy solitude.
In today’s fast-paced social environment, Miss Manners’ insights provide essential etiquette guidance. For more questions, readers can reach out via her website or email.
As social norms continue to evolve, staying informed about proper etiquette can help individuals navigate these interactions with confidence and respect.
